SEScoops

Category: NJPW

  • Kenny Omega Reflects On Time In WWE Developmental, Discusses Upcoming Documentary

    Kenny Omega Reflects On Time In WWE Developmental, Discusses Upcoming Documentary

    Kenny Omega remains the hottest free agent in pro wrestling. Speculation ended over his possible Royal Rumble involvement once the match finished without ‘The Best Bout Machine.’ However, that isn’t to say all conjecture as to where Omega ends up has stopped. With AEW, NJPW, and WWE still a possibility, Omega remains one of the most talked about wrestlers in the industry.

    This is highlighted by his upcoming documentary, Omega Man: A Wrestling Love Story. The documentary is set to air on March 27th at 7:30/ET on TSN.

    Speaking with The Warmup, Kenny discussed the documentary, as well as his initial time in WWE’s developmental circuit.

    WWE Developmental

    Back in 2005, Omega was involved with WWE’s developmental promotion, Deep South Wrestling. He confessed he “didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought that I would.”

    “I really appreciated the opportunity and learned a lot. I felt going into the system as being a nobody, without them knowing my limitations, without them knowing my potential, especially, I really wanted to prove to them that I could be more to them and to the business than what they thought of me originally, so I decided to leave WWE.”

    He reflected that he was able to make this decision due to his living situation at the time. His parents helped to support him as he reassessed his direction. This time to think ensured he avoided rash decisions, helping him to focus and fulfil his dreams.

    “[…] Up until now, nobody really understands there are other options, there is more to wrestling than just WWE. You can make a living and make a difference, being regarded as the best on the planet in professional wrestling without ever stepping foot in WWE.”

    Omega Man: A Wrestling Love Story

    Omega admitted he was a private person, but was open to the idea of a documentary being made about him. He also revealed that the whole project came about after a simple question via Twitter.

    “I think it [the documentary] actually originated on Twitter. Someone asked if I were, perhaps, interested in a documentary filmed about me,” he said. “[…] I’m a very private — it’s hard to let people into that personal space bubble, so I was open for discussion, I wanted to talk about it.

    Knowing my schedule doesn’t really have much leeway in terms of free time and such, having a documentary crew follow me around and essentially take away all that free time, I wasn’t sure if I would actually enjoy the experience or not, or if I would be able to act like myself.

    As a performer, I always feel like I’m performing for the people. I didn’t want to make it seem like I was performing for a documentary, I wanted it to be an actual representation of who I am.”

    H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription

  • Will Ospreay Reveals Details Over Recent Injury

    Will Ospreay Reveals Details Over Recent Injury

    Current New Japan Pro Wrestling NEVER Openweight champion, Will Ospreay, has shared that he has recently sustained an injury. This occurred during a Revolution Pro Wrestling (Rev Pro) event in Bristol, England.

    Thankfully, however, the injury isn’t a major one — though still frustrating enough for Ospreay to tweet about via social media.

    Somehow, “The Sky King” managed to break his toe whilst taking an arm drag.

    “I broke my toe taking an arm drag. I think God is f***ing with me”

    He would follow up with a further update, highlighting that the “Bruising is coming out….as well as the bone not being in the right place”.

    https://twitter.com/WillOspreay/status/1089641449669488642

    This injury hasn’t stymied his enthusiasm over his upcoming match against PAC. The two will clash in a matchup for Rev Pro’s High Stakes 2019 show, which takes place on Friday, February 15th in York Hall, Bethnal Green, London.

    A toe injury, though not as serious as others that could be suffered, could still have an effect on Ospreay’s mobility, possibly forcing him to modify his arsenal against the wrestler formerly known as Neville. Despite this, Ospreay promises that “9 toes or 10 I’m gunna be at York Hall”.

    Will you be in attendance for this epic clash? Who do you think will come out on top, Ospreay or PAC?

  • NJPW Road To The New Beginning Results (1/28)

    NJPW Road To The New Beginning Results (1/28)

    New Japan Pro Wrestling is coming off the back of their recent Fantastica Mania series of shows. These shows were a co-promoted event done with the Mexican company, CMLL. Now New Japan is heading towards their first big post-Wrestle Kingdom show, The New Beginning. Beforehand though, is the ‘Road To New Beginning’ tour.

    The second show of the tour took place on 1/28 from Korakuen Hall in Tokyo.

    The Road To The New Beginning Results 1/28

    Ren Narita and Manabu Nakanishi defeated Yuya Uemura and Yota Tsuji via submission.

    Ren Narita would finish the matchup after locking in a Boston Crab onto Yuya Uemura.

    Toa Henare and Hiroyoshi Tenzan defeated Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida via pinfall.

    Henare scored the pinfall after executing the TOA Bottom on Ayato Yoshida.

    Bullet Club (Taiji Ishimori, Chase Owens, Tanga Loa, and Tama Tonga) defeated Taguchi Japan (Ryusuke Taguchi, Tomoaki Honma, Toru Yano, and Togi Makabe) via pinfall.

    Tonga Loa would pick up the victory after hitting his signature move, Apesh*t on Tomoaki Honma.

    YOSHI-HASHI and Kazuchika Okada defeated Yujiro Takahashi and Bad Luck Fale

    Okada’s Rainmaker would help secure the victory for the team after he nailed Takahashi with the move. They also teased another potential feud between Okada and Bad Luck Fale throughout the match and post-match fallout.

    KUSHIDA and Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated Gedo and “Switchblade” Jay White

    “The Ace” Takahashi would get the win after landing the High Fly Flow onto Gedo.

    Suzuki-Gun (El Desperado, Yoshinobu Kanemaru, Taichi, Zack Sabre Jr., and Minoru Suzuki) defeated Los Ingobernables de Japon (Shingo Takagi, BUSHI, SANADA, “King Of Darkness” EVIL, and Tetsuya Naito) via final elimination.

    Taichi would end up the last person standing in the main event, which was held under elimination rules. He would end the night on the mic, making his intentions known for Naito’s IWGP Intercontinental championship.

  • NJPW President Harold Meij Talks Possible AEW Partnership

    NJPW President Harold Meij Talks Possible AEW Partnership

    NJPW President Harold Meij spoke to Yahoo!’s Japanese website and was asked if New Japan would possibly form a partnership with the newly formed All Elite Wrestling. Meij made comments relating to AEW’s “approach to “their presentation” of pro wrestling. The NJPW President felt NJPW would have to see how AEW was going to present their product. This was before making any sort of co-branding decisions.

    Meij made the following comments, translated by @kakutolog:

    “AEW is a new organization to start from now, and I do not know what kind of relationship we would [have]. I think that it is necessary to figure out what policy they would develop on pro-wrestling.”

    It was initially reported that NJPW and AEW would be meeting after Wrestle Kingdom to discuss their positions going forward. It was believed that NJPW would not work with AEW and continue their relationship with Ring of Honor. One of the key elements to their decision is Kenny Omega.

    The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion is still a huge part of New Japan’s plans. If the former Champion does move to AEW the company may wish to come to some sort of arrangement with the new upstart. Whether there would be any other sort of cross-promotion is completely up in the air at this point.

  • Road To New Beginning Results (01/26)

    Road To New Beginning Results (01/26)

    New Japan’s first ‘official’ brand tour has just begun. January’s Wrestle Kingdom was a historic event and the Fantastica Mania tour alongside CMLL drew some impressive crowds. The Road to New Beginning tour has begun and we’ll have the full results as and when the cards take place.

    Here’s the results for the Road To New Beginning Saitama (01/26):

    • Yota Tsuji and Yeya Uemura went to a no contest
    • Toa Henare b. Ren Narita – Henare took the win with the TOA Bottom
    • Manabu Nakanishi and Hiroyoshi Tenzan b. Shota Umino and Ayato Yoshida – Tenzan took the win with the Anaconda Vice over Yoshida
    • Tanga Loa and Tama Tonga b. YOSHI-HASHI and Tomoaki Honma – Loa took the win after hitting Apesh*t on Honma
    • Toru Yano and Togi Makabe b. Chase Owens and Yujiro Takahashi – Yano took the win with a School Boy over Takahashi
    • El Desperado, Yoshinobu Kanemaru, Taichi, Zack Sabre Jr and Minoru Suzuki b. Shingo Takagi, BUSHI, SANADA, EVIL and Tetsuya Naito – Taichi took the win after hitting the Tensho Jujihou on BUSHI
    • Jay White, Gedo, Bad Luck Fale and Taiji Ishimori b. KUSHIDA, Ryusuke Taguchi, Kazuchika Okada and Hiroshi Tanahashi – White took the win after hitting the Blade Runner on KUSHIDA
  • Katsuyori Shibata To Address Crowds in NJPW US Tour

    Katsuyori Shibata To Address Crowds in NJPW US Tour

    New Japan has announced that a company legend will be making a small appearance at each of their US tour dates. Katsuyori Shibata is the head trainer of the company’s Dojo in Los Angeles. The former NEVER Openweight Champion will be addressing the crowds before each of the dates in Los Angeles, Charlotte and Nashville before bell time.

    New Japan had to scramble and make huge changes to the tour recently. With the government shutdown in the United States the company were unable to get the necessary visas for their Japanese talent to perform in America. The cards will now feature almost exclusively US based talent. The company released the following statement regarding Shibata’s involvement:

    “NJPW LA Dojo head coach Katsuyori Shibata will make a special appearance at each of THE NEW BEGINNING USA tour cities.

    Shibata will address the crowd to welcome our fans attending the first NJPW US tour in Los Angeles, Charlotte and Nashville before bell time. There will also be an opportunity to photograph him in the ring.

    Fans will have the chance to hear Shibata’s thoughts on the New Japan spirit — a wrestler trained in the New Japan dojo and now training new wrestlers as the head coach of the LA Dojo. We hope our fans will support the next generation of stars trained by Shibata.

    Once again, we would like to express gratitude to our US fans and hope you look forward seeing the work put in by Shibata and the LA Young Lions before the biggest matches of their career.”

     

  • NJPW Releases Statement On Being Unable To Obtain Visas For USA Shows

    NJPW Releases Statement On Being Unable To Obtain Visas For USA Shows

    New Japan Pro Wrestling released the full lineups for the New Beginning in USA shows to be held next week. Fans might notice a lack of Japanese stars appearing on the shows. This is due to the promotion being unable to obtain Visas for their talent.

    NJPW applied for Visas for several of their wrestlers back in November but have been unable to obtain them due to the ongoing government shutdown in the country.

    Statement On New Beginning In USA Lineups

    NJPW released the following statement on the matter:

    “It is with great disappointment that we must announce that due to the ongoing 2018–19 United States federal government shutdown, we were unable to obtain visas for our Japanese talent who were looking forward to seeing our US fans at the New Beginning in USA,” the statement reads.

    Hirooki Goto vs Jeff Cobb looked to be a match the company was building to on the tour. Yuji Nagata and Tomohiro Ishii were also expected to wrestle each other. Jushin Liger, Satoshi Kojima, and others were expected to make the trip.

    “We are excited to still be able to share a great line-up with our US fans, regardless of visa issues. The IWGP US Champion, Juice Robinson, is defending his title against Barretta and The Great O-Kharn, who is flying in from England, will be debuting in New Japan! What’s more, this show will highlight the talent and potential of our Young Lions, who have been working hard in the NJPW LA dojo. We are looking forward to being able to celebrate the abilities of the exciting new generation of young NJPW wrestlers.”

    NJPW New Beginning In USA Lineups:

    January 30th – LA’s Globe Theatre

    1. Alex Coughlin vs Clark Connors
    2. Jonathan Gresham vs Tyler Bateman
    3. Colt Cabana vs Shane Taylor
    4. Brody King and Marty Scurll (Villain Enterprises) vs Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Lance Archer (KES) (Suzuki-Gun)
    5. Jeff Cobb vs Karl Fredericks
    6. David Finlay vs Chuckie T (CHAOS)
    7. Tracy Williams & Juice Robinson (Lifeblood) vs Rocky Romero & Beretta (CHAOS)

    February 1st, Charlotte – Grady Cole Center

    1. Karl Fredericks vs Clark Connors
    2. John Skyler & Colt Cabana vs Shane Taylor & Lance Archer
    3. Tracer X vs Great-O-Kharn
    4. Jonathan Gresham & Jeff Cobb vs Marty Scurll & Brody King
    5. Alex Coughlin vs Davey Boy Smith Jr.
    6. Tracy Williams & David Finlay vs Rocky Romero & Chuckie T
    7. IWGP United States Championship
      Juice Robinson (c) vs Beretta

    February 2nd, Nashville War Memorial Arena

    1. Karl Frederick vs Alex Coughlin
    2. Jonathan Gresham & Colt Cabana vs Shane Taylor & Lance Archer (Suzuki-Gun)
    3. Harlem Bravado vs Great-O-Kharn
    4. Clark Connors vs Marty Scurll (Villain Enterprises)
    5. Jeff Cobb vs Brody King (Villain Enterprises)
    6. Elimination Match
      Tracy Williams, David Finlay, & Juice Robinson (Lifeblood) vs Rocky Romero, Chuckie T, & Beretta (CHAOS)
  • NJPW Releases Full Cards For New Beginning USA Tour

    NJPW Releases Full Cards For New Beginning USA Tour

    New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced the full card line up for their slate of upcoming shows in the United States. The tour, entitled The New Beginning USA, kicks off on January 30th at the Globe Theatre in Los Angeles.

    The announced card, however, has left a number of NJPW fans unimpressed with the lack of any Japanese wrestlers. With wrestlers such as Jonathan Gresham, Colt Cabana, Shane Taylor, etc involved, it appears that NJPW is already putting their working relationship with Ring Of Honor to use. NJPW will be running their Road To The New Beginning tour in Japan between 01/26 and 01/30, which may explain the absence of Japanese talent on their USA run.

    The main event of Night One (1/30) will feature a special tag match, advertised as ‘One Night Only’ that sees Roppongi Vice team up for the first time. Rocky Romero and Beretta have not teamed since Beretta moved to the heavyweight division.

    New Beginning USA appears to also act as a showcase opportunity for members of New Japan’s L.A. Dojo, with many of their students making their debut across this tour.

    The New Beginning USA 1/30

    • Alex Coughlin vs Clark Connors
    • Jonathan Gresham vs Tyler Bateman
    • Colt Cabana vs Shane Taylor
    • Brody King and Marty Scurll vs Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Lance Archer
    • Jeff Cobb vs Karl Fredericks
    • David Finlay vs Chuckie T
    • Tracy Williams and Juice Robinson vs Rocky Romero and Beretta

    You can see the full cards for 01/02 here, and their 02/02 show here.

    What do you make of this card? Will you be attending The New Beginning USA shows? Has this increased or decreased your anticipation for the event?

  • Jay White Discusses Being Named Leader Of Bullet Club

    Jay White Discusses Being Named Leader Of Bullet Club

    It wasn’t that long ago that Jay White was officially recognized as the new leader of Bullet Club. This revelation led to a mix of emotions from fans of NJPW and Bullet Club, given how relatively new he was to the Club itself.

    Other people’s feelings on the matter didn’t faze Bullet Club itself, however, as Tama Tonga took to Twitter to proclaim White’s leadership to the world. That, in itself, acted as a seal of approval from the newly supposed ‘Good Guy.’

    Speaking recently with Digital Spy, Jay White spoke about being elected Bullet Club leader. He also discussed training at the NJPW dojo, and about wrestling fans who might be looking for alternatives to WWE.

    “I don’t know if people thought it was going to be awkward,” White admitted. “I’ve known those guys for years. I’ve got more claim to being one of the Bullet Club OGs than others may think because I was brought in by guys like Prince Devitt and Bad Luck Fale and I was there as a ‘young boy’ and I knew those guys.”

    “A Lot Of Fans Complain, But They Never Try To Watch Anything Else”

    Speaking of training at the NJPW dojo, White admitted that he was somewhat of a “blend” during his time there.

    “To the Japanese guys, I’m a foreigner,” he explained. “To some of the new foreign guys, I’m almost like a Japanese person in terms of knowing their culture and their ways and how things are backstage. It depends who you compare me to, I’m like a blend of the two, I’m in between.”

    He then claimed that New Japan’s product was “[…] more of a sport than a TV show. You see so many fans getting tired of the same WWE stuff. A lot of fans complain and complain, but they never try to watch anything else at all. The things that they’re often complaining about New Japan has and offers. So all those things you’re able to find with New Japan.”

  • Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/21)

    Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/21)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks. The final show took place on the 21st from Japan’s Korakuen Hall.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be one of KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Korakuen Hall (01/21):

    • Barbaro Cavernario and Templario b. Audaz and Flyer – Cavernario took the win over Audaz with the Cavernaria
    • Atlantis Jr b. OKUMURA – Atlantis Jr took the win after hitting the Atlantida on OKUMURA
    • YOH, SHO, Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima vs Tetsuya Naito, Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Terrible ended in a no contest
    • MEXICAN NATIONAL TRIOS CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH – Forastero, Cuatrero and Sanson b. Angel de oro, Titan and Atlantis – Cuatrero took the win after hitting the Cuatrero Bomb on de oro
    • Ultimo Guerrero, Gran Guerrero and Namajague b. Soberano Jr, Dragon Lee and Mistico – Ultimo took the win with the Guerrero Special on Soberano Jr
    • THE MOVIE: “MY DAD IS A HEEL WRESTLER” SPECIAL TAG MATCH – Dragon George and Sweet Gorilla Maruyama b. Ginbae Mask and Gokiburi Mask – George hit the Dragon Maker on Ginbae Mask for the win
    • Volador Jr b. Caristico – Volador Jr took the win after hitting an Avalanche Spanish Fly
  • Kenny Omega Documentary Premiering On TSN In March

    Kenny Omega Documentary Premiering On TSN In March

    Last month we reported that Toronto musician Joseph Shabson said he scored music for a documentary on New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) star Kenny Omega. The documentary is being worked on by HBO. However, it’s HBO’s Canadian department. Not to be confused with the team that worked on WWE Hall Of Famer Andre The Giant’s documentary last year.

    While fans have only had the word of Shabson to go on, we now have confirmation, and a release date, for the documentary. Writer, assistant director, and producer Corey Erdman recently confirmed the project. Erdman revealed on Twitter (The Tweet has since been deleted) that the documentary will be named “Omega Man: A Wrestling Love Story.” He also noted that it will be released on TSN on March 27th:

    “I can finally talk about what I’ve been doing for a year. I have been writing/producing and assistant directing Omega Man: A Wrestling Love Story, on the brilliant . Premiering March 27 on . Watch the early trailer here: ”

    The Sports Network is not a channel available in the United States. There’s currently no news on how wrestling fans stateside can watch the documentary upon its release. But we’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.

    Kenny Omega’s Free Agency Status

    There has been a lot of speculation in regards to Omega’s future. His deal with NJPW is set to expire soon. Many assume the former IWGP Heavyweight Champ is All Elite Wrestling-bound (AEW). However, Omega recently noted that he’ll be wrestling on a “large international platform” in 2019. This led many to believe he’ll be going to WWE. It remains to be seen where Omega will end up, but expect the announcement very soon.

    What do you think about Omega getting his own documentary?

  • Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/19)

    Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/19)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be one of KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Korakuen Hall (01/19):

    • Gedo and Taiji Ishimori b. Ryusuke Taguchi and Flyer – Ishimori made Flyer tap out using an Ankle Hold
    • Angel de oro and Titan b. Templario and Cuatrero – de oro took the win using La Mecedora on Cuatrero
    • BUSHI, Shingo Takagi and Tetsuya Naito b. Fujin, Raijin and Toa Henare – BUSHI used the Rebellion on Fujin to take the win
    • OKUMURA, Forastero and Sanson b. Atlantis, Atlantis Jr and Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger – OKUMURA used a Modified DDT on Atlantis Jr to take the win
    • Caristico, Barbaro Cavernario and Namajague b. Audaz, Soberano Jr and Volador Jr – Caristico took the win using La Mistica on Volador Jr
    • Terrible b. Satoshi Kojima – Terrible took the win using La Terriblina on Kojima
    • CMLL BROTHERS TAG TOURNAMENT 2018 WINNER vs CMLL FAMILY TAG TOURNAMENT 2019 WINNER SPECIAL TAG MATCH – Mistico and Dragon Lee b. Gran Guerrero and Ultimo Guerrero – Mistico took the win using La Mistica on Gran Guerrero
  • Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/18)

    Fantastica Mania Korakuen Hall Results (01/18)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Korakuen Hall (01/18):

    • Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, Ryusuke Taguchi and Audaz b. Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Templario – Audaz took the win with the Cross Arm Breaker on Templario
    • Angel de oro and Titan b. OKUMURA and Forastero – Titan took the win with Titanica over Forastero
    • Toa Henare, Satoshi Kojima Fujin and Raijin b. Terrible, Tetsuya Naito, BUSHI and Shingo Takagi – Kojima took the win after hitting the Lariat on Terrible
    • Gran Guerrero and Ultimo Guerrero b. Atlantis Jr and Atlantis – Atlantis Jr took the win after hitting a Modified Sit down Powerbomb on Gran Guerrero
    • Caristico and Namajauge b. Flyer and Volador Jr – Caristico took the win with La Mistica on Flyer
    • Barbaro Cavernario b. Soberano Jr – Cavernario took the win with Cavernaria over Soberano Jr
    • CMLL FAMILY TAG TOURNAMENT 2019 FINAL – Dragon Lee and Mistico b. Cuatrero and Sanson – Lee used Desnucadora to take the win and the tournament
  • Update On Why KUSHIDA Is Leaving NJPW

    Update On Why KUSHIDA Is Leaving NJPW

    IWGP Junior Heavyweight, KUSHIDA, announced earlier this month his intentions to leave New Japan Pro Wrestling. His final match with the promotion will be on January 29th against Hiroshi Tanahashi. KUSHIDA is expected to end up with WWE.

    According to a report in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, part of KUSHIDA’s decision to leave had to do with how he was being booked.

    “One of the things with Kushida which led to his leaving for WWE is that early last year he wanted to go heel and join the Bullet Club,” Dave Meltzer wrote. “Gedo wanted him to stay in his place.”

    The report continued to say his booking was likely not the only factor in his decision, however.

    “That probably isn’t the only reason but it was part of it,” Meltzer continued. “He handled it professionally, working until 1/29, doing his clean jobs at the Dome and Dash, and because he handled it so professionally he’s getting his first career singles match with Hiroshi Tanahashi on his last night at Korakuen Hall.”

    KUSHIDA Announces Departure From NJPW

    Kushida announced he is leaving NJPW at a press conference in Tokyo earlier this month.

    “As mentioned previously by Mr. Sugabayashi, I will leave New Japan Pro-Wrestling at the end of January,” KUSHIDA said. “Regarding this choice and decision, it was one made with the full co-operation and understanding of Mr. Kidani, Mr. Meij and Mr. Sugabayashi. It was a very big decision in my life and I’m thankful they understood. As for the future, I would like to see the wide world of professional wrestling with my own eyes, from one end of the earth to the other.”

  • Fantastica Mania Chiba (01/16)

    Fantastica Mania Chiba (01/16)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Chiba (01/16):

    • Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Forastero b. KUSHIDA, Ryusuke Taguchi and Titan – Foratstero took the win using a Triangle Choke-Hold on Titan
    • Fujin and Raijin b. Shingo Takagi and BUSHI – Fujin took the win using La Casita on BUSHI
    • Audaz, Soberano Jr and Angel de oro b. Namajague, OKUMURA and Barbaro Cavernario – Soberano Jr took the win after hitting La Bufadora on OKUMURA
    • Terrible and Tetsuya Naito b. Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima – Terrible took the win with La Terriblina on Henare
    • Caristico, Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger and Tiger Mask b. Templario, Gran Guerrero and Ultimo Guerrero – Caristico took the win using La Mistica on Templario
    • Sanson and Cuatrero b. Atlantis and Altantis Jr – Sanson took the win using the Sanson Special on Atlantis Jr
    • Dragon Lee and Mistico b. Fyler and Volador Jr – Lee took the with with the Desnucadora on Flyer
  • Fantastica Mania Gifu (1/14) Results

    Fantastica Mania Gifu (1/14) Results

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Gifu (01/14):

    • Audaz, Ryusuke Taguchi and Tiger Mask b. Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Templario – Audaz took the win with a Reverse Arm Lock over Templario 
    • Cuatrero and Taichi b. Flyer and Angel de oro – Cuatrero took the win after hitting the Abrazo Oso Invertida on de oro
    • Atlantis, Atlantis Jr and KUSHIDA b. Yoshinobu Kanemaru, OKUMURA and Sanson – Atlantis took the win with the La Atlántida over Sanson
    • Soberano Jr, Titan and Dragon Lee b. Forastero, Barbaro Cavernario and Gran Guerrero – Soberano Jr took the win after hitting the La Bufadora on Cavernario
    • Mistico, Volador Jr and Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger b. Namajauge, Caristico and Ultimo Guerrero – Mistico took the win with La Mistica over Guerrero
    • Tetsuya Naito, Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Terrible b. Fujin, Raijin, Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima – Naito took the win after hitting a Corriendo-style Destino on Henare
  • Fantastica Mania Kyoto Results (01/13)

    Fantastica Mania Kyoto Results (01/13)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Kyoto (01/13):

    • Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Templarino b. Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, Ryusuke Taguchi and Audaz – Templarino took the win after hitting the Modified Powerbomb on Audaz
    • KUSHIDA and Angel de oro b. Taichi and Cuatrero – de oro took the win after hitting the La Campana on Cuatrero
    • Flyer, Atlantis Jr and Atlantis b. Sanson, OKUMURA and Yoshinobu Kanemaru – Flyer took the win after hitting an Avalanche Spanish Fly on OKUMURA
    • Soberano Jr, Titan and Mistico b. Forastero, Barbaro Cavernario and Ultimo Guerrero – Mistico took the win after hitting a Swanton Bomb on Forastero
    • Namajauge, Gran Guerrero and Caristico b. Tiger Mask, Dragon Lee and Volador Jr – Guerrero took the win after hitting an Avalanche Michinoku Driver ? on Lee
    • Tetsuya Naito, Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Terrible b. Fujin, Raijin, Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima – Naito took the win after hitting Destino on Henare
  • Rumored Main Event For G1 Supercard In Madison Square Garden

    Rumored Main Event For G1 Supercard In Madison Square Garden

    On April 6th, NJPW and ROH will perform in front of a sold-out Madison Square Garden. No matches have been made official for the event. There is a rumored main event match being talked about, however. The show’s potential main event was addressed recently on Wrestling Observer Radio. According to Dave Meltzer, the rumored main event is Hiroshi Tanahashi vs Kazuchika Okada.

    “That’s the match I’ve heard,” Meltzer said referring to Tanahashi vs Okada. “I don’t think it’s official or anything. When I was in Japan that was what everybody was saying but I don’t know if that was more rumor and what would make sense. It’s kind of like if you don’t have Omega in the main event then you have to have Tanahashi and Okada.”

    Tetsuya Naito was discussed as someone who could be put in the main event as well. Chris Jericho’s name came up in the discussion too.

    Tanahashi vs Okada is one of the most storied rivalries in NJPW history, however. The two have met in 13 single’s match. They each have a record of 5-5-3 against each other dating back to 2010.

    Some members of the Elite have specifically mentioned they will not be performing on April 6th. Cody had the following to say on the show to Sports Illustrated late last year:

    “After 10 years with WWE doing ’Mania weekend and two more with ROH, I am leaving that weekend for the boys and girls of the WWE.”

  • Fantastica Mania Ehime Results (01/12)

    Fantastica Mania Ehime Results (01/12)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    The opening show took place in Japan’s Ehime Texport Imabari. One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Ehime (01/12):

    • Audaz, Ryusuke Taguchi and KUSHIDA b. Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Templarino – Audaz took the win with a Triangle Choke-Hold over Templarino
    • Titan and Flyer b. Taichi and Forastero – Titan hit the Titánica on Forastero for the win
    • Sanson, OKUMURA and Yoshinobu Kanemaru b. Tiger Mask, Atlantis Jr and Atlantis – Sanson took the win after hitting the Sanson Special on Atlantis Jr
    • Ultimo Guerrero, Barbaro Cavernario and Cuatrero b. Soberano Jr, Angel de oro and Mistico – Guerrero took the win after hitting the Guerreros Special on Mistico
    • Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, Dragon Lee and Volador Jr b. Namajuge, Gran Guerrero and Caristico – Lee took the win after hitting the Patros Enel Pecho on Guerrero
    • Tetsuya Naito, Shingo Takagi, BUSHI and Terrible b. Fujin, Raijin, Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima – Naito took the win after hitting Destino on Henare
  • Fantastica Mania Osaka Results (01/11)

    Fantastica Mania Osaka Results (01/11)

    We’re hit the aftermath of New Japan’s biggest show Wrestle Kingdom. This means that the annual Fantastica Mania tour has now begun. Several of the top stars from Mexico’s CMLL promotion will be in the New Japan ring for the next few weeks.

    The opening show took place in Japan’s Osaka Prefectural Gym. One of the biggest draws of the tour is that it will be KUSHIDA’s last, he is leaving NJPW and is likely signing with NXT.

    Here’s the results from the show in Osaka (01/11):

    • Gedo, Taiji Ishimori and Templarino b. Tiger Mask, Ryusuke Taguchi and Audaz – Templarino took the win after hitting a Modified Power Bomb on Audaz
    • Yoshinobu Kanemaru, Taichi and Forastero b. Jushin ‘Thunder’ Liger, Flyer and Titan – Forastero took the win using a Triangle Choke-Hold on Titan
    • OKUMURA and Sanson b. Atlantis Jr and Atlantis – OKUMURA took the win after hitting a Spinning DDT on Atlantis Jr
    • Cuatrero, Gran Guerrero and Ultimo Guerrero b. Angel de oro, Dragon Lee and Mistico – Cuatrero took the win after hitting the Cuatrero Bomb on Angel de oro
    • Namahage, Barbaro Cavernario and Caristico b. KUSHIDA, Soberano JR and Mistico – Caristico took the win after hitting La Mistica on Volador Jr
    • Shingo Takagi, BUSHI, Tetsuya Naito and Terrible b. Fujin, Raijin, Toa Henare and Satoshi Kojima – BUSHI took the win over Fujin using the BUSHI Roll
  • Kenny Omega Reportedly Turned Down WWE Offer

    Kenny Omega Reportedly Turned Down WWE Offer

    With the current climate in wrestling many independent stars are being locked into contracts as quickly as possible. WWE, All Elite, Ring of Honor, New Japan and IMPACT are attempting to get in as many guaranteed talents on the books to deter their competition.

    One of the biggest names currently nearing the free agent status is Kenny Omega. The former IWGP Heavyweight Champion will be free of his New Japan contract on February 1st. The speculation is rampant…where will he end up?

    According to the Wrestling Observer the ‘Best Bout Machine’ will indeed be joining his Elite comrades in AEW. Dave Meltzer even mentioned that “the word was that he [Omega] had already turned down the WWE offer.”

    It’s also being speculated that AEW and New Japan Pro Wrestling will indeed come to some sort of working relationship. Particularly with regards to Omega. With Chris Jericho having signed with AEW and his potential match with Hiroshi Tanahashi coming soon it would be in New Japan’s interest to work alongside AEW. This also calls into question how Kota Ibushi falls into the equation.

    The ‘Golden Star’ is of course intrinsically linked with Omega and NJPW can ill afford to lose The Young Bucks, Cody Rhodes, Kenny Omega, Hangman Page and Kota Ibushi in quick fashion. The two sides may come to an agreement but this remains to be seen.

  • Update on Kota Ibushi Injury Angle

    Update on Kota Ibushi Injury Angle

    Kota Ibushi took part in a hellacious match against Will Ospreay at this past week’s Wrestle Kingdom event. Opening the show in the Tokyo Dome. Near the end of the bout Ibushi took a patented and violent elbow from Ospreay which many believed may have caused a concussion.

    The actual ‘sell’ of the move was all part of the story, however Ibushi did actually suffer from a concussion. Earlier in the bout Ospreay hit a kick in the corner which caused the minor concussion, this lead to Ibushi being taken out on a stretcher. The stretcher spot was used to write off Ibushi from the upcoming tour. Ospreay will be unable to appear on the latest tour due to his WoS/World of Sport commitments, so this should hopefully lead to a further program between the two later down the line.

    According to the Wrestling Observer things could’ve been much worse still. Ibushi suffered from an eye injury that was originally believed to be a detached retina. It appears as though this isn’t the case and whilst he is not 100% he is recovering and expected to be training again within the next few days.

  • NJPW President Comments On Departing Talent & Critics Of Booking

    NJPW President Comments On Departing Talent & Critics Of Booking

    New Japan Pro Wrestling President, Harold Meij, recently took part in an interview with NJPW1972.com. During the interview, Meij commented about the departures of Kenny Omega and the members of the Elite. He also issued a response to his critics who say NJPW is currently too focussed on international expansion.

    NJPW commentator, Chris Charlton, provided the translations.

    “Meij: ‘Talent will come & go. That’s life. Half of Japanese people have had more than one occupation. More overseas. There are different life stages, priorities change. What counts is that while here, ppl shine as bright as possible & produce the best product possible for us’”

    Harold Meij On NJPW Booking and Departing Talent

    Meij has come under criticism from some NJPW fans as of late for what they perceive as focussing too much on appealing to international fans.

    “I often see talk along the lines of ‘since Meij came in, they’re only looking at international, they don’t care about Japan.’ That couldn’t be more wrong,” Meij continued.

    “New Japan has gotten to the stage that the world has taken notice of it and we can do these things abroad. I’m not pushing the company international; if anything it’s the other way round. I’m doing my job as a professional to fulfill very strong demand.”

  • WIll Ospreay Reacts to KUSHIDA Leaving NJPW

    WIll Ospreay Reacts to KUSHIDA Leaving NJPW

    We reported earlier this week that KUSHIDA would be leaving NJPW after 8 years. KUSHIDA is easily one of the greatest performers in the history of New Japan, let alone the Juniors division.

    KUSHIDA lost his IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship at last week’s Wrestle Kingdom show from the Tokyo Dome in Japan. The former champion’s final bout for the company will come at the ‘Road To’ New Beginning show on January 29th against Hiroshi Tanahashi.

    One of the top stars from the NJPW Juniors Division (as of now) Will Ospreay took to Twitter to talk the departure of KUSHIDA and what it means to the division going forward. The UK star stated “This is when opportunity can present itself. New Japan will need Junior Heavyweights. I could name 5 lads in the UK alone that would be a great addition. Time to step up lads.”

    Ospreay is still technically classed as a Junior performer for the company. The ‘Aerial Assassin’ faced Kota Ibushi at Wrestle Kingdom for the NEVER Openweight Championship, meaning that he could compete against a ‘heavyweight’ star. It is likely that Ospreay will be moving into the heavyweight division going forward. This would mean that there are two open spots for the Juniors division in the company, exciting times ahead.

    https://twitter.com/WillOspreay/status/1082205006533664769

  • Latest On Kenny Omega’s Future

    Latest On Kenny Omega’s Future

    Many professional wrestling fans are anticipating where Kenny Omega will end up this year. “The Cleaner” recently dropped the IWGP Heavyweight Championship at New Japan Pro Wrestling’s (NJPW) Wrestle Kingdom 13. In a recent interview, Omega confirmed that he plans on leaving the promotion. WWE has made the longtime NJPW star a “fantastic” offer. However, it looks like Omega won’t be joining the WWE’s already stacked roster.

    Per a report from Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio, Omega is expected to be joining All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Omega can’t make the move until his deal with NJPW is up at the end of the month. An official announcement on Omega’s future likely won’t be made until February 1st.

    It was also noted that NJPW found out about Omega’s intentions to leave the promotion through his interview with Tokyo Sports. They were not pleased with having to find out this way.

    NJPW “badly” wants to keep Omega, which could result in a partnership between NJPW and AEW. AEW has been making headlines for the past several weeks, especially after having already landed top stars like Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks.

    All Elite will be holding their “Double or Nothing” rally in Jacksonville today at 5 P.M. ET. It will all go down from the West Club parking lot of the TIAA Bank Field.

    What do you think about Omega possibly heading to AEW?